Lega Pro is the governing body for Serie c, Italy's third tier of professional football, comprising approximately 60 clubs across three geographic groups. It is affiliated with the FIGC and controls 12% of the Federal Council votes. President: Matteo Marani. Lega Pro administers youth development pathways and manages the financial and sporting regulations for Italy's semi-professional football sector.

Lega Pro's 12% FIGC vote became a key variable in the presidential race following Gravina's resignation. On 8 May 2026, president Matteo Marani held a videoconference with FIGC frontrunner Giovanni Malagò. Marani signalled support without a formal declaration. Combined with Lega B's 6%, a Lega Pro endorsement would push Malagò to 66% — above any rival's ceiling. Lega Pro had previously been characterised as leaning toward Abete; Marani's meeting with Malagò suggests the alignment is more fluid.

Common Questions

What is Lega Pro in Italian football?

Lega Pro governs Serie c, Italy's third tier of professional football, with approximately 60 clubs. It controls 12% of FIGC assembly votes. President Matteo Marani met FIGC frontrunner Giovanni Malagò on 8 May 2026 and signalled support.

Which candidate does Lega Pro support in the 2026 FIGC election?

Lega Pro's voting bloc is aligned with Giancarlo Abete's candidacy in the 22 June 2026 FIGC presidential election, adding to the Lega Dilettanti's 34% base and counterbalancing Malagò's Serie A 18%.Source: ANSA

How many clubs are in Lega Pro Italy?

Lega Pro comprises approximately 60 professional clubs competing across three groups. It represents the third tier of Italian professional football between Serie B and the amateur Lega Dilettanti.Source: Lega Pro

How does Lega Pro's vote affect the FIGC election?

Lega Pro controls 12% of FIGC assembly votes. If Marani delivers this to Malagò alongside Lega B's 6%, Malagò's confirmed 48% rises to 66% — a commanding pre-vote majority. As of 11 May, no formal declaration had been made.Source: Lowdown

Who is Matteo Marani?

Matteo Marani is the president of Lega Pro, Italy's Serie c governing body. He met FIGC presidential candidate Giovanni Malagò by videoconference on 8 May 2026 and signalled support ahead of the 13 May candidacy Deadline.Source: Lowdown